Milind Soman just wore a dress and totally owned it
Milind Soman is out here reminding us all that fashion has no rules. Well, he just wore a dress with a slit and proved his point.
Be accessible to people: Cabinet secretary tells senior bureaucrats
Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan has urged Union government secretaries to be more accessible to non-officials, addressing concerns about a perceived reluctance to grant appointments. He emphasized that meetings with individuals from diverse backgrounds can offer valuable insights, clarify misunderstandings, and facilitate better policy implementation. Officials are encouraged to hold these meetings in their offices.
Japanese art of storytelling, Rakugo, comes to Chennai
From the mischievous five-year-old Shin Chan, the robotic cat Doraemon and the trouble-making Ninja Hattori to the various anime series, Chennaiites have found a quiet fascination with Japan. Today, that cultural curiosity has grown deeper, moving into the world of traditional art forms. One such art form Rakugo, a classic style of Japanese storytelling came to Chennai on Sunday. Santhosh Kaliyanaraman, an NRI from Tamil Nadu who crossed borders to pursue his interest in Rakugo and Japanese culture, presented the act. Dressed in a kimono, seated on his knees, with just a hand fan and a kerchief, he brought to life a series of classical Japanese tales in Tamil and English at Anna Centenary Library. Rakugo is a solo, sit-down storytelling form that dates back to nearly four centuries. The performer remains seated throughout the act, often in a kneeling position called seiza , and enacts multiple characters using just minimal props. Its a form of mono-acting that relies heavily on vocal shifts, gestures, and facial expressions. Every Rakugo story builds up to a strong climax punchline called ochi which is the soul of the performance. The stories themselves are often passed down for generations. While most Rakugo are comic in nature, there are also ghost stories ( Kaidanbanashi ) and emotional narratives ( Ninjobanashi ), says Santhosh. His discovery of Rakugo was accidental. While living in Bengaluru five years ago, he happened to attend an event by a Japanese storyteller who couldnt speak a word of English. The performance was entirely in Japanese, a language Santhosh barely knew. Yet, he was fascinated. I couldnt understand anything, but I fell in love with it, he says. That led him to read more, and discover Rakugo being performed in English in Japan. He eventually shifted to Tokyo, where he now lives and works as an IT engineer while learning the art on the side. Santhosh Kaliyanaraman Rakugo is taught in a guru-shishya tradition, and Santhoshs learning began two-and-a-half years ago under a shishou (mentor) as part of an English Rakugo association. Students typically train in a single story for six months, performing it repeatedly in front of their teacher, receiving corrections and improving their unique style. If he doesnt say anything, its worse, he laughs. Once the teacher feels the student is ready, they perform the piece in front of an audience at what is called a happyoukai a debut performance similar to an arangetram. Santhoshs first story was Misomame , one close to his heart, which he performed again on Sunday. In fact, its the first story performed by most professionals. Its like the alphabet when we start learning any language, he says. The event, designed to be child-friendly, also featured four other stories: a family and their pet monkey, a day in the life of a new zookeeper, a Buddhist monk and his assistant, and finally an extra story on audience request, a man and rickshaw- wallahs . These are classical stories that have been performed for 300 to 400 years. Like Carnatic music, they remain the same, but every performer brings a different flavour without changing the essence, says Santhosh. While classical stories are called Koten Rakugo , there is also Shinsaku Rakugo , which involves original stories created by performers. Translating these tales from Japanese to Tamil and English, however, is not without challenges. Comedy is always cultural. There are a lot of wordplays and puns called dajare and cultural references that dont translate well, he says. To ensure the humour lands, Santhosh replaces or flattens these references without stripping the story of its Japanese meaning. I try to stick to the original Japanese culture. I dont want to make it like a dubbed English film. So far, he has performed about 35 shows in Tokyo. In India, he did three shows last year and four this time, with this being the last of the trip. The response in Bengaluru and Chennai has been lovely. People love the format, says Santhosh. Among Sundays audience were several children and parents many of whom were witnessing Rakugo for the first time. I have been to a storytelling event before but I liked this better because it was very funny and interactive, says Nithila, a 10-year-old accompanied by her father Ramkumar Natarajan, a stand-up comic who witnessed Santhoshs show the previous day at Medai, Alwarpet. Even though I had met him (Santhosh) a few times in Japan, I had no idea about Rakugo until I went to his show yesterday. Todays show was really good and everyone seems to have enjoyed it, including me, says Ramkumar. As the event came to a close, it was a young audience member who softly said Arigato (thank you), offering a small but meaningful farewell in the language of the stories they had just heard.
Somalians shouldnt run for office in US: Hate floods in as Omar Fateh runs for Minneapolis mayor
Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan asks top officers to meet non-officials
Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan has advised senior government officers to meet non-official individuals seeking appointments, stating that such interactions are key to understanding on-ground realities and correcting miscommunications.
Milind Soman, Ankita Konwar Turn Heads With Stunning Looks At Wimbledon 2025
This year, many Bollywood celebrities came to watch Wimbledon matches, including Milind Soman and his wife, Ankita Konwar, who caught everyones eye with their stylish outfits.
Koppal and Vijayanagara railway demands submitted to Union min Somanna
Patel power play as AAP challenges BJP Gujarat citadel
AHMEDABAD : The political battleground in Gujarat is witnessing a renewed churn around the influential Patidar community, with multiple players vying for dominance in this electoral bloc. While the BJP continues to command a grip on the Patel vote bank, bolstered by its top leadership comprising influential Patidar figures, emerging challenges from the AAP and internal lobbying within the Congress are beginning to shift the political discourse. The AAP, under the leadership of Gopal Italia, has stepped up efforts to erode the BJPs dominance in the Patidar belt. Though the Congress has failed to make a lasting dent in the BJPs support among Patels, it is currently witnessing a power tussle within its own state unit. While its Patidar leaders are pushing for a Patel to be appointed as the new state Congress president, a counter-lobby led by the OBC bloc is pressing for an OBC leader to take charge. A political confrontation has turned Morbi into the epicentre of Gujarats electoral drama. The spark came when BJP MLA Kanti Amrutiya, during a public event, challenged AAPs Gopal Italia to contest elections from his Morbi seat. Amrutiya vowed to resign from the assembly on Monday and even pledged Rs 2 crore to Italia if he managed to win. If he has the support of the Patidar community, let him prove it in Morbi, Amrutiya asserted. Vankaner BJP MLA Jitu Somani threw his weight behind Amrutiyas challenge. If Italia wins from Morbi, I will resign from my seat in Vankaner. Let him put in his papers on Monday and enter the ring, Somani declared. Gopal Italia accepted the challenge in a video response. If the BJP MLAs truly resign, Im ready to contest. One must not go back on their word. I accept this challenge, Italia expressed.
Somanna flags off extended train service
BJP revamps state leadership; Sobha Surendran, Ramesh among general secretaries
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a significant move ahead of local body and assembly elections, the BJP has executed a major revamp of its state leadership. Prominent woman leader Sobha Surendran, former secretary S Suresh and former Yuva Morcha national secretary Anoop Antony Joseph have been inducted as general secretaries, while senior leader M T Ramesh has been retained in the post. Notably, ex-DGP R Sreelekha and young leader Shone George figure among the 10 new vice-presidents. The new office-bearers were announced on the day of Union Minister Amit Shahs visit to the state. Shah is expected to chair the state-level leadership meeting on Saturday. The revamp, widely perceived as an attempt to rework internal dynamics and increase the partys appeal, includes a combination of seasoned leaders and successful career professionals. The appointment of a new team reflects the vision of Rajeev Chandrasekhar, who recently took over as the party state chief. With the reshuffle, current group equations within the party are anticipated to change. There are allegations that leaders close to V Muraleedharan have not been given due consideration in the revamp. Meanwhile, attempts have been made to ensure social and communal balance. A couple of leaders from minority communities figure among the new appointees. Apart from Sreelekha and Shone, former vice-chancellors K S Radhakrishnan and Abdul Salam, C Sadanandan of Kannur, P Sudheer of Thiruvananthapuram, C Krishnakumar from Palakkad, B Gopalakr-ishnan from Thrissur, K Soman of Alapppuzha and K K Aneesh Kumar of Thrissur have also been appointed as new vice-presidents. The list of 10 newly appointed secretaries includes Ashokan Kulanada, K Renjith, Renu Suresh, V V Rajesh, Pandalam Prathapan, Jiji Joseph, M V Gopakumar, Poonthura Sreekumar, P Shyamraj and M P Anjana Renjith. In addition to these changes, Abhijith R Nair has been named the partys social media convenor. Many factors considered for party revamp T P Jayachandran Master will serve as the BJPs spokesperson. The overhaul is viewed as part of the BJPs strategy to energise its state unit and gear up for the elections with a refreshed leadership team. Ramesh told TNIE that many factors were considered before the revamp. The revised list has taken into account various sections, including newcomers, professionals and youths. The party will put up a strong performance in the upcoming elections, said Ramesh, who chose to downplay reports over certain leaders being sidelined in the reshuffle.
8 CBSE schools in Mumbai to watch out for
Mumbai's demand for top-tier CBSE schools offering academic excellence and holistic development is rising. Several institutions like RN Podar, Navy Children School, and Somaiya School provide diverse streams and focus on 21st-century skills. These schools prepare students for higher education and future challenges through rigorous academics and extracurricular activities, fostering intellectual and personal growth.
KCR admitted to hospital again in one week
Hyderabad: Former Telangana Chief Minister and Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) president K. Chandrasekhar Rao was again admitted to a private hospital here for medical investigations. The 71-year-old leader was admitted to Yashoda Hospital, Somajiguda, on Thursday on the advice of doctors. He was accompanied by his wife Shobha, nephew and former Minister T. Harish Rao Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Manipur HC directs NIA to file progess report on Jiribam killings
GUWAHATI: The Manipur High Court has directed the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to file a progress report in connection with the November 11, 2024 killings of three women and three children -- all members of the Meitei community -- in Jiribam. A division bench, comprising Chief Justice K Somashekar and Justice Ahanthem Bimol Singh, issued the direction during the hearing of a public interest litigation on Monday. The petitioner, Soram Tekendrajit, had sought justice for the victims. The court said although an FIR was filed on November 11, 2024 itself, yet no progress report had been submitted and no charge filed by the investigation agency. There is no progress report submitted by the NIA represented by Mr. W Darakeshwor. The said counsel in this case seeks a short accommodation on the premises that he wants to submit a detailed progress report in terms of charge sheet. If charge sheet is not filed, this matter should be viewed seriously, the court said. The NIA counsel was directed to submit the detailed progress report in terms of charge sheet before the court. The matter will be heard again on July 24 next. The six victims all from the Meitei community were allegedly abducted by Kuki militants from Borobekra in Jiribam on the same day Central Reserve Police Force and Manipur Police gunned down 10 Kuki armed Kuki miscreants in the area. The bullet-riddled bodies of the six were recovered on different days from the Barak River along the Manipur-Assam border. The killings triggered widespread protests in the Imphal Valley during which mobs attacked the houses of several legislators. Jiribam, located on Manipurs westernmost boundary adjoining Assams Cachar district, was the last district to be affected by the ethnic conflict between Meiteis and Kukis. It has a mixed population of Meiteis, Kukis and other tribal and non-tribal communities.
The official announcement was made during the inauguration of Zohos Kottarakkara campus, which was presided over by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Finance Minister K N Balagopal. Also present were Zoho US Co-founder Tony Thomas, Zoho Chief Scientist Sridhar Vembu, Member of Parliament Kodikunnil Suresh, Kerala Startup Mission CEO Anoop Ambika, and former ISRO Chairman Dr S Somanath.
Decision on HemavatiRiver Link Canal after spot inspection: Somanna
Somany Ceramics Cut To 'Add' As HDFC Securities Sees Limited Upside After Recent Rally
HDFC Securities downgrades Somany to Add, owing to stock price rally in the past month.
Migrant Workers Body Reaches Native Place From Israel
Telangana Israel Association president Soma Ravi said that Ravinders last rites were conducted on Wednesday.
Milind Soman's simple, doable diet and fitness routine REVEALED
When it comes to daily exercise, Soman likes running, cycling, and walking, which are low-impact exercises that improve cardiovascular health and overall fitness. Milind believes in listening to his body and not overdoing it, as his aim to stay fit, not lose weight.
Union Minister of State for Railways V Somanna on Friday said train fares will be raised in stages without affecting the commuters. The minister also said that discussions for the changes are going on. July will see some major changes in tickets including Aadhar-based authentication.
Maharashtra's Deputy CM Ajit Pawar is emerging as a voice of restraint. He intervened in Kirit Somaiya's mosque visits after Muslim groups objected. Pawar also opposed the promotion of Hindi in primary schools. He criticised VHP and Bajrang Dal's role in Nagpur riots. This stance sparks debate about his motives and NCP(A)'s identity.
KJ Somaiya Polytechnic Result 2025: Karamshi Jethabhai Somaiya Polytechnic Result 2025 has been released on polytechnic.somaiya.edu.in. Here is the direct Link to check your Diploma Course FTD, PTD, and WP Summer Results Online.
Appealing to the Chief Minister to safeguard the States water rights over the Godavari and Krishna rivers, it insists on accelerating the PolavaramSomasila interlink, completing the ongoing Rayalaseema projects, and protecting the constitutional and tribunal-based entitlements
Andhra Pradeshs space policy aims at attracting 25,000 crore investment, generating 35,000 jobs
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu gives the green signal for development of two Space Cities at Lepakshi and Tirupati; Andhra Pradeshs timely policy intervention will give it a competitive edge in the expanding space economy, says Honorary Adviser and former ISRO Chairman Somanath
Gujarat Congress Vice President Hira Jotva grilled by police over Rs 7.3 crore MNREGA scam
AHMEDABAD: An assistant project manager has flagged a shocking MNREGA scam worth Rs 7.3 crore across villages in Gujarat's Bharuch district, Amod, Jambusar, and Hansot Taluka. Acting on the complaint, Bharuch police have now summoned Congress leader Hira Jotva from Gir Somnath for questioning. Sources indicate that police may move toward arresting him following the interrogation. The Rs 7.30 crore fraud, spanning 430 development works across 56 villages in Amod, Jambusar, and Hansot talukas, was first flagged on May 30 by a government official from the Gram Vikas Agency, who filed a formal complaint at Bharuchs A Division Police Station. The investigation zeroed in on two Veraval-based firms Shri Jalaram Enterprise and Muralidhar Enterprise contracted for supplying material under MNREGA projects. These agencies allegedly manipulated records, provided substandard material, and bypassed mandatory manual labour by using machines, thereby violating the core principles of the rural employment scheme and causing massive losses to the state exchequer. Police identified Piyush Nukani, owner of Shri Jalaram Enterprise, and Jodhabhai Sabhad, owner of Muralidhar Enterprise, as key players in the racket. Crucially, both are reported to have close ties to senior Congress leader Hira Jotwani a link that has now drawn political attention to the case. Following the FIR, Bharuch SP formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the scandal. The SIT, after recording statements from workers and agency staff, summoned Hira Jotva to Bharuch for questioning regarding his association with the two contractors. Officials are probing whether Jotva played any role in facilitating or shielding the scam. However, at the time of writing, police have not officially declared whether Hira Jotva has been officially arrested or detained. Bharuch Congress Leader Sandeep Mangrola said, Hira Jotva was detained from Gir Somanth, and police are bringing him here at Bharuch for questioning. Hira Jotva is a prominent face in Gujarat Congress politics. He contested the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from Junagadh and had earlier fought the 2022 Assembly polls from Keshod. He also served as the General Secretary of the Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) from 2019 to 2023 and is currently its Vice President. As questioning continues, the police are examining financial trails and political connections to determine the full scale and backing behind the scam. Legal proceedings are underway, and more detentions could follow based on emerging evidence.
Set to release in theatres on July 25, the anthology film also features Santhanam, Guru Somasundaram, Robo Shankar and Bala Saravanan in special supporting roles
Top HSC Performers Honoured at Somaiya Vidyavihar University's Academic Excellence Ceremony
admission.somaiya.edu/svuet .
India second after Nigeria on largest number of unvaccinated children: Lancet
NEW DELHI: A whopping 1.44 million children in India did not receive a single shot of any routine vaccination in 2023, a new global study published Wednesday in The Lancet said. The study also stated that India recorded the second-highest number of zero-dose childrendefined as those lacking access to or never reached by routine immunisation services after Nigeria. India also stood among the eight countries, along with Nigeria and Ethiopia, where more than half of the unvaccinated children from around the world lived as of 2023, according to an analysis by the Global Burden of Disease Study Vaccine Coverage Collaborators. The report said that more than half of the 15.7 million global zero-dose children resided in just eight countries, with Nigeria topping the list with the largest number of unvaccinated children (2.5 million), followed by India (1.4 million), the Democratic Republic of Congo (882,000), Ethiopia (782,000), Somalia (710,000), Sudan (627,000), Indonesia (538,000) and Brazil (452,000), thus emphasising persistent inequities. In India, the Universal Immunisation Programme provides vaccination against 12 diseases, which are offered to children free of cost. The report stated that achieving coverage of 90 percent or greater for each of the life-course vaccines all three doses of the diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTaP) vaccine, two measles vaccines, and the pneumococcal vaccine is the central target for 2030. Only 18 of 204 countries have already met this target. It also said that children who had never received a routine childhood vaccine further fell by 75 percent fall, from 58.8 million in 1980 to 14.7 million in 2019, before the Covid-19. The Covid-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges, with global rates for these vaccines declining sharply since 2020 and still not returning to pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels as of 2023, it added. It noted that substantial increases in coverage are necessary in many countries and territories, with those in sub-Saharan Africa and south Asia facing the greatest challenges. The study suggested strengthening primary healthcare systems, addressing vaccine misinformation and hesitancy, and adapting to local contexts as essential to advancing coverage. The report said that measles vaccination coverage declined in 100 of 204 countries between 2010 and 2019. In 1980, 53.5 percent of children who had never received a routine childhood vaccine, or zero-dose children, lived in just five countries, India, China, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. But by 2019, 52.8 percent of zero-dose children still lived in only seven countries, namely, Nigeria, India, Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Brazil, Somalia, and Pakistan, it highlighted. The report said although delivering routine childhood vaccinations worldwide requires a tremendous investment of global resources, including approximately $3.9 billion in development assistance for health in 2023, childhood immunisation has proven to be one of the most successful and cost-effective public health strategies known, both in terms of lives saved and return on investment. The study provided updated global, regional, and national estimates of routine childhood vaccine coverage from 1980 to 2023 for 204 countries and territories for 11 vaccine-dose combinations recommended by World Health Organisation for all children globally.
Mosque loudspeaker row: Ajit Pawar directs police not to take any wrongful action
Maharashtra Deputy CMs comment came after the delegation of Muslim leaders complained of campaigns against loudspeakers by Kirit Somaiya in several areas of Mumbai, as well as police action on removing the loudspeakers
Muslim leaders meet Ajit Pawar over loudspeakers at mosques
Muslim leaders met with Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar to voice concerns over the removal of loudspeakers from mosques. They alleged that police action was prompted by BJP leader Kirit Somaiya's demands, despite mosques adhering to permissible decibel limits set by the High Court. Pawar emphasized adherence to decibel limits and tasked the police to act on violations.
AU Law Student Shines Nationally in CUET-PG 2025
Kondeti Soma Sekhar ranks among the top scorers in CUET-PG 2025, chooses Central University of Punjab
Somanna holds review meeting in Hassan
Kavitha demands return of 5 merged villages in AP to Telangana
Hyderabad: Telangana Jagruthi President and BRS MLC K Kavitha has demanded that five villages, merged into Andhra Pradesh under the Polavaram project, be returned to Telangana. Kavitha raised this issue during a roundtable discussion titled Polavaram: Telangana pai Khadgam (Polavaram: A Sword Over Telangana), organised by Telangana Jagruthi at the Somajiguda Press Club on Friday, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Violence against children in conflict reached unprecedented levels in 2024, with Gaza worst: UN
United Nations, June 20: Violence against children caught in multiple and escalating conflicts reached unprecedented levels last year, with the highest number of violations in Gaza and the West Bank, Congo, Somalia, Nigeria and Haiti, according to a United Nations report released late Thursday. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres annual report on Children in Armed Conflict detailed []
kjsce.somaiya.edu/en
Speaking about the event, Milind Soman, Indias Fitness Icon, said, Yoga is not just a practice, its a way of life.
Indie musician Aksomaniac on his track Kanmashi and choosing music as a career
The 22-year-old independent artiste from Thiruvananthapuram on his new track espouses fluidity, dealing with self-love and self-exploration
Maoists strangle three villagers, abduct dozen others in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur
RAIPUR: Suspected Maoists have killed three villagers who were relatives of a surrendered commander of the banned outfit at Peddakorma village and abducted around a dozen local inhabitants in Bijapur, about 450 km south of Raipur. The killings by Maoists are seemingly in retaliation for the huge loss of their cadres killed by security forces in the ongoing offensive operations in Bastar. According to local sources, Maoist cadres led by local leader Vella stormed into the village and strangled the relatives of surrendered Naxal commander Dinesh Modium. The deceased victims--identified as Jhingu Modium, Soma Modium and Anil Madwi--were strangled by rope in the presence of other villagers. A former Divisional Committee Member (DVCM), Dinesh Modium relinquished his position in the CPI (Maoist) organisation and surrendered to the police a few months ago in Bijapur. The information regarding the murder of three villagers and kidnapping of others by Maoists at Peddakorma village has been received. The police are verifying the details. Its a cowardly act of Maoists who are attempting to create an environment of fear and terror in the region, stated the Bastar police. Targeting innocents and killing them is unacceptable. We condemn such acts. Those abducted should be set free. It seems the lower naxal cadres are expressing their anger when the state is not properly responding to repeated proposals by Maoists of holding peace dialogue, but instead continuing with the planned operations, said Bela Bhatia, human rights activist. The police team will reach the spotat Peddakormafor further probe on Wednesday and send the bodies for post-mortem, officials said. The red guerrillas are pushed on the back foot by security forces across the major areas of their influence, as they are 'eluding from their secured stronghold bases'. The Maoist movement, once feared for its brutality, is now breathing its last, as peace and development take root across Bastar, asserted Sundarraj P, Bastar range IG. Over 400 Maoists have been killed in separate encounters across the Bastar zone during the last 17 months
Monsoon Nears, But Somasila Dam Repairs Stuck Over Rs 6 Crore Dues
Work halted again as contractor awaits payment; only 30% of apron repairs completed since 2021
Ivory Coast workers say Unilever is violating their union rights amid share sale, documents show
The bargaining agreement, dated from 2004, was confirmed by management in 2007 and remains valid, according to Lex Ways lawyer Soualiho Lassomann Diomande, who represents local staff.
Minister Somannas Udupi visit on June 13 cancelled
Learn governance from Modi, Somanna tells Siddaramaiah
Minister of State for Railways has advised the Chief Minister to stay in Delhi for eight days and watch how administration is carried out there
Kharge rules out Team Siddu rejig
KALABURAGI: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has ruled out any reshuffle in the Siddaramaiah cabinet. Speaking to reporters at his residence here, Kharge said that the party would inform if there is a reshuffle or change of guard at the KPCC. Kharge said these issues did not figure when chief minister Siddaramaiah and deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar met him and Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi on Tuesday. Our discussions were on the stampede outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium and caste survey, he said. Kharge said the stampede has worried everybody, including the Congress. It should not have happened. I, myself, and Rahul Gandhi have told the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister to take all necessary steps in future to prevent such incidents. They briefed us about the incident and the steps taken aftermath including suspension of police officers, ordering magisterial inquiry and judicial inquiry and payment of compensation to the aggrieved, he said. Reacting to BJPs demand for the resignation of the chief minister and the Deputy CM, owning moral responsibility for the stampede, Kharge questioned whether UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath had resigned when the stampede took place during Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj. They expressed anger at me when I raised questions on the stampede at Kumbh Mela, Kharge said. Kharge said the caste survey was conducted 10 years ago. Various community leaders have urged me and the government to conduct resurvey. We have advised the CM and DCM to conduct resurvey without rejecting the survey report given by Kantaraj Commission. Resurvey would be done to include those castes and sub-castes which were genuine to be included in the OBC but were not included in the previous survey, said Kharge. When reporters asked how many marks he would give for the performance of the Modi government, Kharge refused. He asked Modi to tell how many poll assurances he has fulfilled. Kharge said Modi does not have faith in democratic process. When the UPA was in power, it used to accommodate opposition by giving Deputy Speakers post in the Lok Sabha. But the NDA government has kept the Deputy Speakers post vacant for 11 years. When Kharges attention was drawn on the statement of Minister of State for Railways, Somanna, in the recent press conference at Kalaburagi that Kharge sanctioned Railway Division to Kalaburagi wrongly when he was the railway minister, he said let Somanna start commissioning of Railway Division at Kalaburagi and let him take the credit. Stampede unfortunate Mallikarjun Kharge said the stampede has worried everybody, including Congress. It should not have happened. I and Rahul Gandhi have told the CM and Deputy CM to take all necessary steps in future to prevent such incidents. They briefed us about the incident, Kharge said.
Former ISRO Chairman S. Somanath appointed as VC of Chanakya University
Minister Somanna to visit Udupi district on June 13
Stalin flags high interest rates for development loans, hopes for World Bank support
Union Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan recalls his long association with World Bank
Trumps new travel ban takes effect as tensions escalate over immigration enforcement
WASHINGTON, June 9, 2025 (AP) President Donald Trumps new ban on travel to the U.S. by citizens from 12 mainly African and Middle Eastern countries took effect Monday amid rising tension over the presidents escalating campaign of immigration enforcement. The new proclamation, which Trump signed last week, applies to citizens of Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. It also imposes heightened restrictions on people from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela who are outside the U.S. and dont hold a valid visa. The new ban
Somanna reviews key railway projects in Mysuru, instructs officials to stick to timelines
No amount can compensate for lives lost in stampede, says Somanna
Trump issues total travel ban for 12 nations, partial restrictions for 7 others
The Trump administration signed a proclamation Wednesday suspending travel to the U.S. for citizens from 12 countries: Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. Citing national security interests, the proclamation states that the identified countries lack sufficient vetting and screening processes needed to detect foreign nationals who [] The post Trump issues total travel ban for 12 nations, partial restrictions for 7 others appeared first on Northlines .
Trump signs proclamation banning travel from 12 nations
Washington: US President Donald Trump has signed a proclamation imposing a travel ban on 12 countries and restricting the entry of seven others to the US, citing national security concerns. According to the proclamation, the 12 countries that were banned include Afghanistan Burma Chad Congo Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Haiti Iran Libya Somalia Sudan Yemen Additionally, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
'Sad story of our own foreign policy collapse': Congress after Pakistan set to chair UNSC committee
NEW DELHI: With Pakistan set to chair a key committee of the UN Security Council and be the vice-chair of another panel of the world body, the Congress on Thursday described the development as the sad story of our own foreign policy collapse but questioned how the global community can continue to legitimise Pakistan's sponsorship of terrorism. Pakistan will chair the Taliban Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council for 2025 and will be vice-chair of the Counter-Terrorism Committee of the 15-nation UN body. Congress' media and publicity department head Pawan Khera said the IMF gave USD 1 billion to Pakistan on May 9 during Operation Sindoor. World Bank decides to give USD 40 billion to Pakistan soon after Operation Sindoor. ADB gave USD 800 million to Pakistan on June 3, soon after Operation Sindoor, he said on X. 1. IMF gave $1 billion to Pakistan on May 9 during Operation Sindoor. 2. World Bank decides to give $40 billion to Pakistan soon after Operation Sindoor. 3. ADB gave $800 million to Pakistan on June 3 soon after Operation Sindoor. And on June 4 Pakistan gets elected as Chairman pic.twitter.com/nVW4rbU8LV Pawan Khera (@Pawankhera) June 5, 2025 And on June 4, Pakistan gets elected as Chairman of the UNSC Taliban Sanctions Committee and Vice Chairman of the UNSC Counter Terrorism Committee, he pointed out. Of course, this is the sad story of our own foreign policy collapse, but how can the global community allow this continuous legitimisation of sponsorship of terrorism by Pakistan? Khera said. Pakistan will chair the 1988 Taliban Sanctions Committee that imposes an assets freeze, a travel ban and an arms embargo on individuals, groups, undertakings and entities associated with the Taliban in constituting a threat to the peace, stability and security of Afghanistan. Guyana and Russia will be vice-chairs of the Taliban sanctions committee. Pakistan will also be co-chair of the Informal Working Groups on Documentation and Other Procedural Questions and on the General UNSC Sanctions Issues. Pakistan is a non-permanent member of the 15-nation Security Council for the 2025-26 term. The sanctions committees of the Council comprise all 15 members of the Security Council and make their decisions by consensus. India was Chair of the UNSC Counter-terrorism Committee for 2022 during its 2021-22 tenure in the Council as a non-permanent member. India has consistently reminded the international community that Pakistan is host to the world's largest number of UN-proscribed terrorists and entities. Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden was hiding in Pakistan's Abbottabad for years and was killed in an operation by the US Navy Seals in May 2011. China, France, Russia, the UK and the US are the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, while Algeria, Denmark, Greece, Guyana, Pakistan, Panama, South Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, and Somalia are currently in the Council as non-permanent members. India slams Pakistan at UNSC, says it has experienced decades of Islamabad-sponsored terrorist attacks
Trump Announces Travel Ban Affecting A Dozen Countries Set To Go Into Effect Monday
The countries include Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen
Trump travel ban: US imposes entry ban on 12 nations, adds restrictions on 7 others
US President Donald Trump has reinstated and expanded a travel ban, blocking or restricting entry from 19 countries, citing national security threats and visa overstay concerns. The ban, effective Monday, targets 12 nations with full travel restrictions and seven with partial limits. Trumps move revives his earlier travel policy, scrapped by Joe Biden in 2021, and comes amid heightened political rhetoric on immigration control and terrorism risks. The countries listed include Afghanistan, Iran, Somalia and Myanmar, many of which are African or Muslim-majority.
Trump announces travel ban affecting dozen countries including Afghanistan and Iran
The countries include Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen.
Telangana journalists, activists support tribal museum in OU campus
Hyderabad: Senior journalists and social activists came in support of establishing a tribal museum in the two professors quarters in Osmania University, leased by Adi Dhwani Trust, founded by retired professor Jayadheer Tirumala Rao. Addressing the media at Somajiguda Press Club on Tuesday, June 3, they assured that the 6 mini-museums being setup in the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
8 Fitness Habits to Steal from Milind Somans 85-Year-Old Mom
Milind Somans mother Usha Somans fitness journey proves age is no barrier - daily movement, consistency, and passion keep her strong and inspiring at 85.
Somanna slams Siddaramaiah for implicating farmers opposing Hemavathi link canal project
The Central Minister says that the Chief Minister now-a-days is like a train that missed the village station
Somanna lays foundation stones for railway projects in Bidar district
Bombay High Court holds businessmans arrest in Rs 67 cr case illegal, orders his release
The Bombay High Court declared Hemang Shah's arrest illegal due to the police's failure to produce him before a magistrate within 24 hours. Justices Gauri Godse and Somasekhar Sundaresan ordered his immediate release from Arthur Road Jail, citing a violation of Article 22(2) of the Constitution.
BJP MLAs, farmers, seers stage protest opposing Hemavathi Express Link Canal Project in Tumakuru
Tumakuru MP and Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti V Somanna writes to CM opposing the project to supply water to from Tumakuru to Bengaluru South district
UOI notifies appointment of three new judges to SC; strength rises to 34
NEW DELHI: The Centre on Thursday notified the elevation of three new judges to the Supreme Court following the Presidents assent to the collegiums recommendations. The three new judges who are elevated to the top court are; Justices V. Anjaria, Chief Justice, High Court of Karnataka, (ii) Vijay Bishnoi, Chief Justice, High Court of Gauhati and (iii) A.S. Chandurkar, Judge, High Court of Bombay. These three new judges are expected to be sworn in by the Chief Justice of India (CJI) Bhushan R Gavai on Friday morning, as per sources. With the elevation of these three new judges in the top court, the actual number of judges rises to 34, which is also the sanctioned capacity of the top court. Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Law and Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Ram Meghwal, talking to X (Formerly known as Twitter), shared the news. In exercise of the powers conferred by the Constitution of India, the President, after consultation with Chief Justice of India, is pleased to appoint S/Shri Justices (i) N.V. Anjaria, Chief Justice, High Court of Karnataka, (ii) Vijay Bishnoi, Chief Justice, High Court of Gauhati and (iii) A.S. Chandurkar, Judge, High Court of Bombay as Judges of the Supreme Court of India, Meghwal posted. On May 26, the Supreme Court collegium had recommended the appointment of their names to be elevated to the SC . The Centre took four days to deliberate upon these judges' names to consider appointing them in the top court and accordingly sent its decision to the apex court collegium. This was the second recommendation made under the leadership of Chief Justice Gavai, who took the reins recently on May 14 from CJI Sanjiv Khanna (former). The SC Collegium, headed by the CJI Gavai, took the decision of recommending these names -- Justices Anjaria, Bishnoi and Chandurkar -- after deliberating upon their experience and expertise in handling of cases. The apex court's five-member Collegium -- headed by the CJI Gavai -- had recommended these three names for the appointment as SC judges, following the retirement of former Chief Justice of India (CJI) Khanna, and Justices Bela M Trivedi and A S Oka recently. The Supreme Court Collegium earlier on May 15 recommended the appointment of Karnataka High Courts Justice Kempaiah Somashekar as Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court.
Karnataka: MoS Somanna takes on Shivakumar over threat to Tumakuru water
A water dispute is brewing between Tumakuru and Bengaluru South as Deputy CM DK Shivakumar seeks Hemavathy water for his district. This move has angered Union Minister V Somanna, who fears it will deprive Tumakuru farmers. Somanna urges CM Siddaramaiah to halt the project, suggesting Shivakumar focus on local water resources instead, warning of protests if ignored.
After giving them a long rope, BJP expels two rebel MLAs for anti-party activity
S.T. Somashekhar and Arabail Shivaram Hebbar had shifted loyalties to BJP from Congress in 2019
The Bombay High Court on Tuesday came down heavily on the Maharashtra government while granting bail to a 19-year-old engineering student from Pune arrested for her social media post critical of Operation Sindoor. A vacation bench of Justices Gauri Godse and Somasekhar Sundaresan said it was absolutely shocking that the student has been treated like a hardcore criminal by the government. This is absolutely shocking. It appears like police officers are bent upon ruining her life. Equally the college, Justice Godse remarked ordering the immediate release of the girl, currently lodged in Pune's Yerwada Central prison. The court ordered the student to be released on Tuesday itself and made it clear that it will not at all accept any excuses later if the authorities fail to release her today before sunset. The concerned officer of the prison is directed to ensure that she is released today evening itself so that she can appear for her college examination, the court said, suspending the rustication order passed against her and directing the institution to issue her a hall ticket. The rustication order has been issued hurriedly without giving the student an opportunity to give her explanation, the court said. The court also noted that the student should not have been arrested at all since she had deleted the post immediately, expressed remorse and apologised for the same. Khadija Sheikh, a second-year IT engineering student at Pune's Sinhgad Academy of Engineeringan unaided private college affiliated with Savitribai Phule Pune University was arrested on May 9 for Instagram stories criticising the Indian government during the Indo-Pak hostilities amid Operation Sindoor. Within two hours after sharing the Instagram stories on May 7, she deleted them following a barrage of threats. However, the girl was arrested and booked under Sections 152, 196, 197, 299, 352 and 353 of Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, 2023. Along with the Pune city police, the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and intelligence agencies joined the probe in the case. Following the arrest, on May 9, her college issued a rustication letter stating that since the girl had brought disrepute to the institution, it was justified to preserve the institution's ethos. It further said the student had anti-national sentiments and posed a isk to the campus community and society. The girl had to be escorted out of college due to protests against her. Observing that the girl's act of sharing such posts can be termed as an act of indiscretion by a young student, the court said, The girl has posted something and then realised her mistake and apologised. Instead of giving her a chance to reform, the state government has arrested her and turned her into a criminal. The court questioned the conduct of the government and the college. Someone is expressing their opinion, and this is how you ruin her life? A student's life has been ruined, it said. When additional government pleader P P Kakade argued that the girl's post was against the national interest, the court remarked, How can the state arrest a student like this? Does the state want students to stop expressing their opinions? Such a radical reaction from the state will further radicalise the person. The bench also rapped the college for rusticating the girl, saying that an educational institution's approach should be to reform, not punish. When the counsel for the college argued that 'students need to follow some discipline' the judges remarked, Who is stopping you from this? First inculcate some discipline in the institute then discipline students. Practice what you preach. Instead of reforming her and making her understand, you have turned her into a criminal. You want the student to turn into a criminal? the court asked. It said the girl is at an age where mistakes are bound to happen and she had suffered enough. While the girl had initially moved the HC challenging the decision taken by her college rusticating her, her lawyer Farhana Shah on Tuesday also filed a petition seeking quashing of the FIR and bail. The teen, in her plea, stated that the college's decision was arbitrary and a gross violation of her fundamental rights. She requested the high court to quash the rustication, order her reinstatement, and allow her to appear for the semester exams scheduled to begin on May 24. The student contended that the rustication order passed by the institution, was arbitrary and unlawful. She also stated that she had reposted the social media post without ill intent and immediately apologised.
The Bombay High Court has pulled up the government of Maharashtra over the arrest of a teenaged college student in Pune for a social media post on the India-Pakistan conflict. A vacation bench of Justice Gauri Godse and Justice Somasekhar Sundaresan was hearing the teen girl's plea.
BJP expels 2 Karnataka MLAs for 'anti-party activities'
The BJP has expelled two of its MLAs in Karnataka, S T Somashekar and A Shivaram Hebbar, for six years for their alleged anti-party activities. The party high command took a decision after long deliberations. The duo had won the 2023 Assembly election on the BJP ticket but soon started hobnobbing with the Congress, saffron party insiders said. They were often ignored party's diktat, instructions and had stopped attending the party meetings as well. In the Karnataka Assembly as well, they were seen supporting the ruling Congress, with which they were long associated before 2019, they alleged. Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar criticised the action, saying that there are so many FIRs and investigations underway against some legislators, while some BJP legislators tried to infect the leader of opposition with HIV and tried to trap former Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa but no action was taken against them, he alleged.
Karnataka BJP expels two MLAs for six years over anti-party activities
Somashekar and Hebbar, who represent Yashwanthpur and Yellapur Assembly constituencies respectively, have not responded so far.
BJP Expels Two Karnataka MLAs for Six Years Over Anti-Party Activities
S T Somashekar and A Shivaram Hebbar removed from party for alleged dissent, says BJP state chief B Y Vijayendra
Bombay HC Slams Maharashtra Govt Over Student's arrest for Post on Indo-Pak Conflict
A vacation bench of Justices Gauri Godse and Somasekhar Sundaresan asked the teen's lawyer to immediately file a bail plea, which it said it would grant today itself.
BJP expels two MLAs for anti-party activities in Karnataka
In Karnataka, the Bharatiya Janata Party took action against two of its Members of the Legislative Assembly. S T Somashekar and A Shivaram Hebbar were expelled from the party for six years. B Y Vijayendra, the state president, cited their involvement in anti-party activities as the reason. The decision was made after careful consideration by the party high command.
Farmers Wary Despite Record Water Allocation for Early Kharif in Nellore
Nellore is the only district in the erstwhile Andhra Pradesh region with a combined water storage capacity of 100tmc in the Somasila and Kandaleru reservoirs this season
Justice Kempaiah Somashekar sworn in as 9th Chief Justice of Manipur High Court
Justice Kempaiah Somashekar was sworn in as the ninth Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court at Raj Bhavan, with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla administering the oath. The President appointed Justice Somashekar, formerly of the Karnataka High Court, following the Supreme Court Collegium's recommendation after the retirement of Chief Justice D. Krishnakumar.
Justice Kempaiah Somashekar sworn in as CJ of High Court of Manipur
Imphal, May 22: Justice Kempaiah Somashekar was on Thursday sworn in as the ninth Chief Justice of High Court of Manipur, a Raj Bhavan statement said. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla administered the oath of office to Justice Somashekar in the swearing-in ceremony held at the Darbar Hall of Raj Bhavan, Imphal, it said. Justice Kempaiah Somashekar of Karnataka High Court was appointed as the Chief Justice of High Court of Manipur by the President of India on May 20. Judges [] The post Justice Kempaiah Somashekar sworn in as CJ of High Court of Manipur appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
K. Soman assumes charge as Tribunal for LSGIs
Justice K Somashekar Appointed Chief Justice Of Manipur High Court
Somali Jet may advance monsoon, not guarantee more rain: IMD scientist
The intensifying Somali Jet, a crucial monsoon influencer, has sparked online buzz, though the IMD remains cautious about definitive conclusions. This low-level jet stream, originating near Mauritius and Madagascar, is vital for moisture transport and rainfall enhancement during the South Asian monsoon.
President appoints Karnataka HC judge K. Somashekar as Chief Justice of Manipur High Court
The appointment came days after a three-member collegium headed by CJI B.R. Gavai had recommended this appointment in view of retirement of incumbent Chief Justice D. Krishnakumar on May 21
Union Minister HD Kumaraswamys housewarming draws political buzz
BENGALURU/NEW DELHI: Union Minister for Steel and Heavy Industries HD Kumaraswamy marked a new chapter in New Delhi with a housewarming ceremony at his new quarters on Kushak Road on Monday morning. He was joined by his father former PM HD Deve Gowda, his son JDS Youth Wing president Nikhil Kumaraswamy and the extended family. Though the invite list was largely limited to close family, it was far from low-key. Union Minister V Somanna, once a loyal Janata Dal hand, made an appearance. Union ministers from Karnataka Pralhad Joshi and Shobha Karandlaje were expected to drop in later in the evening. Joshis team confirmed that he would go personally and wish him. Till now, Kumaraswamy was staying at the Steel Ministry guesthouse. The new quarters in the heart of Lutyens Delhi heralds his renewed phase of political influence on the national stage. Kumaraswamys brothers and sisters and their spouses, including his brother HD Balakrishne Gowda, were present. His brother-in-law Dr CN Manjunath, husband of HD Kumaraswamys sister Anasuya and Bangalore Rural MP was absent. He said, I had other prefixed engagements and I could not be personally present, however I called him up and wished him. A resident of Lakshmeshwar said, This auto driver is a role model for others. A camera in an autorickshaw is quite surprising. If all autorickshaws and taxis follow this, it would be helpful for the police department in case of emergencies. Thieves will also be wary, and theft cases will decrease.
No more waste dumping by Somayampalayam panchayat at Marudhamalai foothills; area to be fenced
IWT To Remain Suspended Until Pakistan Abjures Support For Cross-Border Terror: Jal Shakti Ministry
NEW DELHI, May 16: The Indus Waters Treaty will remain suspended until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably abjures its support for cross-border terrorism, the Union Jal Shakti ministry has conveyed to the cabinet secretary. In its monthly report to Cabinet Secretary TV Somanathan on Tuesday, Debashree Mukherjee secretary in the Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation under the ministry said the government announced that the treaty would be held in abeyance with immediate effect in the [] The post IWT To Remain Suspended Until Pakistan Abjures Support For Cross-Border Terror: Jal Shakti Ministry appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
SC collegium recommends Karnataka HC judge K. Somashekar as Chief Justice of Manipur High Court
A three-member collegium headed by CJI Gavai in its meeting held on May 15 recommended the appointment in view of retirement of incumbent Chief Justice D. Krishnakumar on May 21
Shed inferiority complex and embrace the vision of equality and social justice
Kannada professor Appagere Somashekar was speaking at the Buddha-Basava-Ambedkar Vicharotsava at VSKU in Ballari
New Kushtagi-Talakal railway line in Koppal district of Karnataka inaugurated by V. Somanna
The new 56-km stretch, part of the broader GadagWadi rail project, connects several towns and villages, including Linganabandi, Hanumapur, Yelburga, Sanganal, Kukanoor, and Talakal
India Exports 4.24 Lakh Tonnes Of Sugar Till April Of This Year: AISTA
India exported 4.24 lakh tonnes of sugar till April of the ongoing 2024-25 marketing year with maximum shipments of 92,758 tonnes to Somalia, trade body AISTA said on Monday.
India exports 4.24 lakh tonnes sugar till April of this year: AISTA
India has exported 4.24 lakh tonnes of sugar up to April in the current marketing year, with Somalia being the top importer at 92,758 tonnes. Out of the permitted 10 lakh tonnes for export, the All India Sugar Trade Association anticipates reaching 8 lakh tonnes.
WhiteOak Capitals Somaiyaa Flags Financials, Healthcare, Consumer Discretionary As Key Overweights
Somaiyaa further cautioned that even though domestic conditions have improved, investors should remain prepared for potential volatility ahead.
7 Shocking Truths Milind Soman Reveals About Tea & Coffee Addiction in Modeling
Milind Soman revealed that most models drink 1520 cups of tea or coffee daily - often due to stress and industry demands.
HDFC Securities recommends 'Buy' rating to Godrej Consumer, Radico, Mahangar Gas, Somany Ceramics, 'Add' call for Dabur, Sonata, Sapphire Foods,'Reduce' for HPCL, Kansai, Aptus Value- here's why
Fitness icon Milind Soman on models' 15-20 cup diet: A wake-up call onhealthtrends
The caffeine culture has been induced majorly by stressful work environments. It may work as a stress buster but in the long run it severely affects health. Fitness icon Milind Soman revealed that due to the working conditions of models, they tend to consume more than 10 cups of coffee and tea.
UNSC holds closed consultations on Indo-Pak tensions, hears calls for 'restraint'
UNITED NATIONS: Amid rising India-Pakistan tensions, the United Nations Security Council has held closed-door consultations where envoys called for restraint and dialogue. The consultations, held by the 15-nation Security Council, lasted about an hour and a half on Monday afternoon but no statement was issued from the Council after the meeting. Pakistan, currently a non-permanent member of the powerful Council, had requested for closed consultations on the situation between the nuclear-armed neighbours. Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad briefed reporters after the meeting. He said the objectives from the closed consultations included enabling the Council members to have a discussion on the deteriorating security environment and rising tensions between India and Pakistan and to have an exchange of views on how to address the situation, including avoiding confrontation that could have serious consequences. Ready to support de-escalation, diplomacy: UN chief amid rising India-Pakistan tensions Greece, President of the Council for the month of May, had scheduled the meeting for Monday afternoon. The closed-door meeting did not take place in the UNSC Chamber where Council members sit at the horse-shoe table but in a consultations room next to the chamber. Assistant Secretary-General for Middle East, Asia and the Pacific in the Departments of Political and Peace building Affairs and Peace Operations Khaled Mohamed Khiari of Tunisia briefed the Council on behalf of both departments (DPPA and DPO). Coming out of the meeting, he said there was a call for dialogue and peaceful resolution of the conflict. Khiari noted that the situation is volatile. Permanent Representative of Greece to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of May Ambassador Evangelos Sekeris described the meeting as productive meeting, helpful. Sekeris said the Security Council is always helpful in such efforts, in response to questions on the Council's role in de-escalating tensions. Last week, Sekeris had said that a meeting of the Council on the situation would be an opportunity to have views expressed and this might help to diffuse a bit tensions. South Asian region, world cannot afford India-Pakistan confrontation: UN spokesperson A Russian diplomat, coming out of the meeting, said, We hope for de-escalation. Just hours before the closed consultations, Guterres voiced concern over tensions between India and Pakistan being at their highest in years, saying it pains me to see relations reaching a boiling point. Guterres made remarks to the press from the UNSC stake-out Monday morning amid rising tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir that killed 26 civilians, including a Nepali citizen. Guterres said he understands the raw feelings following the awful terror attack in Pahalgam and reiterated his strong condemnation of that attack. Targeting civilians is unacceptable and those responsible must be brought to justice through credible and lawful means, he said. Guterres stressed that it is essential -- especially at this critical hour -- to avoid a military confrontation that could easily spin out of control. Now is the time for maximum restraint and stepping back from the brink. That has been my message in my ongoing outreach with both countries. Make no mistake: A military solution is no solution, the UN Chief said. Before the UNSC meeting, India's former Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin had told PTI that no consequential outcome can be expected from a discussion where a party to the conflict seeks to shape perceptions by using its membership of the Council. India will parry such Pakistani efforts. Home Ministry asks states to conduct mock drills to prepare for 'hostile attack' Following the meeting, he said Pakistan's grandstanding has flopped again today as in the past. As was expected there was no meaningful response by the Council. Indian diplomacy has yet again successfully parried Pakistani efforts to seek the Security Council's intervention. Apart from the five veto-wielding permanent members China, France, Russia, UK and the US the 10 non-permanent members in the Council are Algeria, Denmark, Greece, Guyana, Pakistan, Panama, South Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia and Somalia.
